No Chase move from Warriors

The Warriors are hunting a new stand-off for next season to replace NRL-bound Brett Finch and have been widely linked with the Castleford star.

Chase, who played for England against the Exiles last Saturday, was even quoted last week admitting he would be interested in a move to the Challenge Cup holders.

But the Evening Post understands a move for Chase will not materialise after coaches decided to look elsewhere. The reported price tag of £250,000 was not thought to be a factor.

It is understood Wigan have already recruited Salford’s Matty Smith for next season to replace Thomas Leuluai, and will look to the NRL for a player best suited to partner him in the halfback spots next season.

In the short-term, Finch is likely to switch to No.7 for the next few weeks while Leuluai recovers from the leg injury he suffered in the Exiles’ 18-10 loss.

The Evening Post revealed yesterday that the Kiwi was facing an eight-week lay-off.

Coach Shaun Wane will decide this week how he will juggle his squad to cover for the loss.

Leuluai has missed only one game so far this year but at least have Finch available for their next Super League game, at home to Widnes next Monday.

Finch and centre George Carmont both pulled out of the Exiles squad with minor knocks sustained in the Warriors’ 36-14 win over Catalan Dragons nine days ago.

“Brett needed a rest,” said Wane. “He took a slight knock against Catalans and George has had a tough season and also needed a break.”